Backpacking, independent travel, and flashpacking are cheaper than the "cheapest package tours" and promotional offers around but you can also use travel information for family vacations, even romantic honeymoon destinations.

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The Manor Hotel Camp John Hay, Baguio City

Probably the most luxurious hotel in the City of Pines, The Manor at Camp John Hay high up in Baguio City was the home of Tutubi for 4D/3N but mostly spent attending a recent convention leaving no time for him to explore more of Baguio's other charming attractions.

Tutubi left Manila around 8am and passed by NLEX, SCTEx then the winding snake-like Kennon road to reach Baguio in less than 5 hours where the cozy room of The Manor welcomed him.

the cozy, inviting room where Tutubi slept for three nights all by for himself

the refreshing view outside the room with a garden suitable for events and garden weddings with a man-made waterfall's gushing sound for a relaxing ambiance

down in the garden with the veranda in view

CAP-John Hay Trade Center, the venue of Tutubi's conference

Review of The Manor, Camp John Jay:

Rooms: very cozy with a good view. Tutubi requested for a garden view that's why he has that view of the place. There's no bathtub, something Tutubi looks forward to in a plush hotel where he loves to spend time on.

Food Prices: to give you an idea how much it is to eat at Camp John Hay, the menu has salads priced from PhP200 - 400; soups at PhP150 - 200; pasta PhP414 (in servings good for 2 people); desserts at PhP150-207; Set Filipino breakfast costs PhP250 - 380 while buffet breakfast costs PhP550/person if it's not included in your room accommodations cost.

Food was ok, though not really outstanding except the salads with very fresh greens with vinaigrette with a a little sweet hint that Tutubi loved. Fresh strawberries, in season, were also served but quickly emptied from their trays.

Service was fast with staff courteous. One very helpful lady was Des, the convention manager, for her accommodating kindness but Tutubi found out she resigned and due to transfer to hotel near NAIA Terminal 3.

Other facilities inside Camp John Hay include a junior golf course (if you want a full golf course, there's Baguio Country Club nearby), the Camp John Hay Historic Core with the Cemetery of Negativism, Bell Amphitheater, Bell House, Art Park, Mini Camp John Hay, and a Butterfly Sanctuary (entrance fee of PhP40.00 but stupid opening time of 10am when most butterflies are getting ready to sleep)

Tip: If you're looking for cheap package and discounts, book at The Manor during the lean months of July to September for 40% discount on published rates.

For room rates, reservations and other inquiries, visit The Manor Camp John Hay's official website.

How to get to Camp John Hay:

Commuting to Camp John Hay is easy with jeepneys going to Mines View Park pass by the gate but requires some walking to get to the hotel. The best way still is to flag a taxi in Baguio city center. It's mostly accessible from Kennon Road then turn right on Loakan Road.